Everyone is attempting to do something different.Anyone can sing, but to sustain, you need to put in hard work and effort. What do you think about the present generation of singers and music composers? But I have something to add - the central government should show more consideration to the artists from the south and recognise their contributions. I feel humbled to see my fans and their love.

Because I think it’s an endorsement of the people’s choice and their verdict. And, I wholeheartedly accept whatever awards came my way. If people like my singing and they remember me, that is the biggest award. Why did you reject the Padma Bhushan award? You thought it came to you too late. Then, I write them down in Hindi or Telugu and learn how to pronounce. I feel I was born to sing! By the way, I have never had issues singing in languages I am not familiar with. I think it’s god’s gift, and I can’t thank him enough. (Grins) I might have aged, but my fascination for music is intact. Don’t you think so?Īt some point of time, voices age, but yours seem ageless. In a way, it’s good because I am giving space for other singers. It’s not that I can’t sing I don’t want to. It has been three years since I moved to Hyderabad. 10 Kalpanakal music director Mithun Eeshwar actually asked me if I could sing another song, but I didn’t oblige. (Laughs) One-is-better-than-the-other, right? I have sung some of the most beautiful numbers, which remain close to my heart. So will the Ammapoovinu track from the Malayalam film 10 Kalpanakal officially be your last song? What if you get songs that make you change your mind? So, I strike a chord with both young talents and established artistes. I have worked with the young music directors like Anirudh as well. I am blessed to have worked with legends like Mohammed Rafi, Bismillah Khan, Chitti Babu, KV Mahadevan, MS Viswanathan, Ilaiyaraaja among many. Also, I want to spend more time with my fans, seeing them and talking to them. Previously, I didn’t have time to do that. Now that I am home, I am cooking for myself (smiles). I need a break, which I haven’t taken at all. I have even decided not to go to any programmes or events as the chief guest.

It wasn’t a conscious decision, though I have been contemplating that I need to quit for a while. I worked hard and I feel it’s time to retire. I ventured into playback singing when I was quite young.

Malare mounama song lyrics writer